Today's Verse

[nChrist]

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By Phil Ware, Heartlight Magazine
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John 13:31
When he [Judas] was gone, Jesus said, "Now is the Son of Man glorified and God is glorified in him."

— John 13:31 (NIV)

Thoughts on Today's Verse...

In the powerful old hymn "Beneath the Cross of Jesus," we sing "my glory all the cross." That was genuinely true of Jesus. While other human leaders try to find glory in all sorts of ways, Jesus' path to glory was the cross, because he was not after acclaim, but wanted to obey and glorify the Father! When Judas left the Last Supper, the final stages of the process were set in motion that would bring Jesus to the horrors of Calvary. But rather than seeing the cross as his degradation, it was his way of glorifying God.

My Prayer...

Dear Lord, please forgive me for seeking the approval and recognition of others. Forgive me for being so self-centered. Forgive me for thinking of my glory and not yours. Forgive me when I have trampled on the hearts of others because I was so busy gaining attention for myself. Jesus' example in the last week of his life shocks me back to reality and helps me realize that true greatness is found in serving you, completely, no matter the cost. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.

[nChrist]

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By Phil Ware, Heartlight Magazine
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John 12:46
I have come into the world as a light, so that no one who believes in me should stay in darkness.

— John 12:46 (NIV)

Thoughts on Today's Verse...

One of the great stories in the Gospel of John is Nicodemus. He came to Jesus at night and Jesus told him that those who love the truth come to the light. Later, Nicodemus spoke up for Jesus even though he was ridiculed for it. Then, at the worst possible time politically and religiously, he showed himself as Jesus' disciple: he took the broken and dead body of Jesus and helped Joseph of Arimathea place him in a tomb. Nicodemus didn't stay in the darkness. Neither should we. Jesus is the light of the world; if our light cannot be found in him, how deep is our darkness!

My Prayer...

Father, I want to walk in the light with you. The darkness of Calvary did not extinguish the light in Jesus; it made it burn more brightly for me. At the cross, I see your love for me. At the cross, I realize that Jesus took my sins away. At the cross, I see Jesus' love for both you and me perfected. Thank you, Father for your gracious salvation. Thank you, Jesus for your incredible sacrifice. In the name Jesus, your perfect Lamb I pray. Amen.

[nChrist]

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By Phil Ware, Heartlight Magazine
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John 13:15-16
"You call me 'Teacher' and 'Lord,' and rightly so, for that is what I am. Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another's feet."

— John 13:15-16 (NIV)

Thoughts on Today's Verse...

Before Jesus went to the cross, he showed his disciples what it means to live in a cross-centered community: he took the position of a household slave and washed his disciples' feet. He did it knowing they would run from him, disown him, betray him, and deny him. Incredible! But he also says that I'm to do it, too. "You can't say you love me," Jesus is saying, "if you won't love those I suffered and died for!" (See 1 John 3:14-18 & 4:7-12.)

My Prayer...

O God, I want to be like my Teacher and your Son. I renounce my self-seeking ways so that I can genuinely serve your children, even those who may not be kind to me. Please give me the strength, courage, and patience to live up to these convictions and more perfectly reflect the character of Christ. In the name of Jesus, my Lord, I pray. Amen.

[nChrist]

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1 Corinthians 1:25
For the foolishness of God is wiser than man's wisdom, and the weakness of God is stronger than man's strength.

— 1 Corinthians 1:25 (NIV)

Thoughts on Today's Verse...

God's ultimate "foolishness" is his willingness to use the cross to bring others to him. At first glance, the cross is a hideous and horrible tool. In our human wisdom, we could never visualize using a man crucified as criminal scum to capture the hearts of the world. But God does. The cross transcends cultural boundaries, overcomes language barriers, and reaches across racial differences. The cross is God's demonstration of foolishness and weakness, and through it he conquers death and brings our hearts to him.

My Prayer...

On this day, Father, when many people play games and tricks and play the fool, I am powerfully reminded of your "foolishness" and "weakness" at Calvary with Jesus. Words cannot express how powerfully they have touched me with your love and filled me with the assurance of your grace. Thank you! I am utterly amazed that you would love me so. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.

[nChrist]

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By Phil Ware, Heartlight Magazine
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John 18:2
Now Judas, who betrayed him, knew the place, because Jesus had often met there with his disciples.

— John 18:2 (NIV)

Thoughts on Today's Verse...

Judas knew where to find Jesus during this intense period of religious preparation. It was no secret that Jesus would be with his disciples in the garden praying together. If we had someone who wanted to betray us, where would that person tell our enemies to find us? Would they know where we would go to be in prayer? Interesting questions aren't they? Can you imagine a better complement than our enemies knowing that they could find us in the place of prayer?

My Prayer...

Forgive me, Father, for not joining you more faithfully in the precious time of prayer. I confess that I get busy, distracted, and even disinterested in my prayer time with you. I am sorry. I am not sure why I have to approach this blessing as a discipline. I pray for your Spirit to create a burning in my heart that calls me joyfully to this grace of prayer. Your presence and concern truly are my sustaining hope. Thank you for always listening even when I've been neglectful, in Jesus' name I pray. Amen.

[HisDaughter]

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By Phil Ware, Heartlight Magazine
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John 18:2
Now Judas, who betrayed him, knew the place, because Jesus had often met there with his disciples.

— John 18:2 (NIV)

Thoughts on Today's Verse...

Judas knew where to find Jesus during this intense period of religious preparation. It was no secret that Jesus would be with his disciples in the garden praying together. If we had someone who wanted to betray us, where would that person tell our enemies to find us? Would they know where we would go to be in prayer? Interesting questions aren't they? Can you imagine a better complement than our enemies knowing that they could find us in the place of prayer?

My Prayer...

Forgive me, Father, for not joining you more faithfully in the precious time of prayer. I confess that I get busy, distracted, and even disinterested in my prayer time with you. I am sorry. I am not sure why I have to approach this blessing as a discipline. I pray for your Spirit to create a burning in my heart that calls me joyfully to this grace of prayer. Your presence and concern truly are my sustaining hope. Thank you for always listening even when I've been neglectful, in Jesus' name I pray. Amen.

That is wonderful and convicting at the same time!  Thanks Brother Tom!

[nChrist]

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By Phil Ware, Heartlight Magazine
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John 19:38-39
Later, Joseph of Arimathaea asked Pilate for the body of Jesus. Now Joseph was a disciple of Jesus, but secretly because he feared the Jews. With Pilate's permission, he came and took the body away. He was accompanied by Nicodemus, the man who earlier had visited Jesus at night.

— John 19:38-39 (NIV)

Thoughts on Today's Verse...

The power of the Cross is demonstrated in the lives of these two men, neither of whom showed himself fully to be a disciple of Jesus in his ministry. Now in his death, they make sure he is given a proper burial, making themselves unclean for the Passover and proving themselves loyal to the Lord at the worst time for them to do so. The Cross touched them when nothing else could, just as it has touched us!

My Prayer...

Righteous Father, I know the cross was a brutal symbol of being cursed. Yet to me it is as precious as it is brutal and it is as beautiful as it was hideous. Through the Cross, you saved me from my sin and showed how much you loved me. Thank you! Please use my life in some small way to glorify you and your indescribable gift at Calvary. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.

[nChrist]

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By Phil Ware, Heartlight Magazine
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John 20:19
On the evening of that first day of the week, when the disciples were together, with the doors locked for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood among them and said, "Peace be with you!" After he said this, he showed them his hands and side. The disciples were overjoyed when they saw the Lord.

— John 20:19 (NIV)

Thoughts on Today's Verse...

"Overjoyed" would be an understatement! After having every dream shattered, now they share the unspeakable joy of seeing what was not possible and experiencing what was unthinkable. The power available to them is now unlimited and their future is without boundary. Jesus, their Teacher, is Lord of all and their future is in his hands.

My Prayer...

I praise you, O mighty God, for raising Jesus from the dead and for the assurance that I will one day be with you and with all those who love you. Thank you for doing what is not possible and giving me faith in what is unimaginable. Please use this power to conform my character to your will and to the example of Christ. In Christ Jesus' name I pray. Amen.

[nChrist]

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By Phil Ware, Heartlight Magazine
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Psalm 55:16-17
I call to God, and the LORD saves me. Evening, morning and noon I cry out in distress, and he hears my voice.

— Psalm 55:16-17 (NIV)

Thoughts on Today's Verse...

Wow, this Psalm of confidence in God suddenly has a much more powerful ring to it after remembering the resurrection of Christ! God does save us. God does listen to our voices. We can be sure he both hears and acts to bring salvation for us. The only question is whether we call out to God evening, morning and noon trusting in his response?

My Prayer...

Abba Father, I have burdens on my heart about things in my own life that need your grace and power. Please hear my voice and my heart as I share these concerns with you ... In addition, dear Father, please place your loving touch on the following people for whom I'm concerned ... Thank you for hearing me and saving me. In the name of my Savior, Jesus Christ, I pray. Amen.

[nChrist]

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By Phil Ware, Heartlight Magazine
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1 Peter 2:11
Dear friends, I urge you, as aliens and strangers in the world, to abstain from sinful desires, which war against your soul.

— 1 Peter 2:11 (NIV)

Thoughts on Today's Verse...

This world is not our destination; it is our journey! There are many things here that can distract us from our goal and destroy our desire to complete our journey. These sinful desires actually are at war with us. But through the power of the Holy Spirit, we can say "NO!" and live with confidence and character before our world that is trapped in darkness and so desperately needs God's light.

My Prayer...

Forgive me, holy God, for my failure with sin. Empower me, almighty God, so that I may grow ever closer to your character and holiness. Help me, loving God, to live a holy life that is attractive to my friends, family, and neighbors, so they may come to glorify you by living your life, too. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.

[nChrist]

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Amos 5:14
Seek good, not evil, that you may live. Then the LORD God Almighty will be with you, just as you say he is.

— Amos 5:14 (NIV)

Thoughts on Today's Verse...

What do you seek out of today? Do you seek good? Or will you pursue evil by nursing a grudge, spreading some gossip, or feeding a lust? God longs to be with us, and he has promised to never leave us. But where God goes, his character, his righteousness, and his goodness are sure to follow!

My Prayer...

Good and loving Father, thank you for showing me what goodness looks like by sending Jesus. Thank you for filling me with your Spirit so I can produce your good spiritual fruit. Thank you for putting me within the Body of Christ, your people, so I can have opportunities to do good deeds for those in need of care. But deep down, Father, I recognize that you alone are truly good. Help me as I seek you, your character, and your goodness in my life. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.

[nChrist]

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Psalm 143:1
O LORD, hear my prayer, listen to my cry for mercy; in your faithfulness and righteousness come to my relief.

— Psalm 143:1 (NIV)

Thoughts on Today's Verse...

Some days are just plain tough! Those we care about are hurting. Our plans are falling through. Our prayers seem to bounce off the ceiling and fall at our feet. We cry out to God - sometimes in anger, sometimes in desperation, but especially for mercy. We need relief! We need hope! We need the Father to respond.

My Prayer...

Faithful and righteous God, loving Father, please come to my aide and bring me relief from my struggles with sin, with disease, with discouragement, with friends who are untrue, and with enemies who work for my humiliation and destruction. I need your help. I need your mercy. O, dear Father, I need to know your presence and power in my life today. In Jesus' sweet name I pray. Amen.

[nChrist]

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Colossians 2:6
So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness.

— Colossians 2:6 (NIV)

Thoughts on Today's Verse...

"New and improved!" That's the key marketing tag to re-introduce an older product that has fallen out of the public perception. Make a few changes, then re-market the old product. Paul wants the Colossians to know that Jesus does not need to be "new and improved." Instead, they need to follow him as Lord just as they did when they first became Christians. That is our need, too. Our lives need to be rooted and nurtured in Christ Jesus as Lord, full of thankfulness for God's incredible gift of grace in his Son.

My Prayer...

Loving Father and Almighty God, thank you for the gift of your grace given to me in Jesus Christ. Forgive me when I get fascinated by what is simply new or when wanderlust hits and I want something novel. Please make my walk with Jesus fresh each day. Strengthen my appreciation that his lordship in my life will help me face the difficult circumstances along the way and greet the exciting new opportunities each day with joy, strength, hope, and power. In Jesus' name I pray. Amen.

[nChrist]

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By Phil Ware, Heartlight Magazine
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Psalm 50:1
The Mighty One, God, the LORD, speaks and summons the earth from the rising of the sun to the place where it sets.

— Psalm 50:1 (NIV)

Thoughts on Today's Verse...

Some speak of Mother Nature, but the Scripture speaks of The Mighty One, God the LORD, who controls our universe and sustains our world. He speaks and they do his bidding. This is the LORD who listens to our prayers and who acts for our well-being. He is the God who sustained his people and sent Jesus to fulfill his promises. He is the God who will bring us home. We can have confidence in our future with him!

My Prayer...

Almighty God, Ruler of the Universe, you are incomparable. I cannot even begin to imagine your glory and power. Nevertheless, I know, God, that you are not only all powerful, but you are also near. Please be near some special friends for whom I pray today ... In Jesus' mighty name I pray. Amen.

[nChrist]

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By Phil Ware, Heartlight Magazine
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Colossians 2:17
These are a shadow of the things that were to come; the reality, however, is found in Christ.

— Colossians 2:17 (NIV)

Thoughts on Today's Verse...

In the world of religious ideas, Paul reminds the Colossian Christians that while the shiny religions around them may sound good and may better fit their desired lifestyle, these religions are only a shadow of what God offers us in Jesus. In Jesus, we have reality: spiritual reality and human reality. God has become one of us in Jesus so we could be one with him. What is real is what we find in Jesus.

My Prayer...

Give me focus, O Lord, to follow your Son with all my heart. I know so many other religious ideas are out there, but I also know that only Jesus showed how much you love me by dying for me and saving me from sin and death. I want to not only trust him and follow him, but I also want my character to be conformed to his. In the name of the only true Savior, Jesus Christ, I pray. Amen.